There’s the return of showjumping after a year’s break, a new kids’ zone, a ‘back to basics’ theme and an extended programme till 6.30pm-7pm.
For the first time the show committee has employed an event manager, Ann Wyatt, who’s been supported by a sponsorship manager, Catherine Fallon, who has brought partners onboard to boost the offerings.
Premium partner Queenstown Airport is extending its involvement with a free kidzone which includes magicians, face painting, a photo booth, big dig, scavenger hunt, biscuit decorating and candy floss.
Platinum partner Royalburn Station’s hosting a petting zoo, sheep shearing and kids’ pet comp, and also running a bar featuring its Swifty beer.
Fellow platinum partner Ayrburn, which fittingly hosted the first A&P Show just over 120 years ago, is selling food and beverage and is also displaying photos from the show’s early days.
In a change from recent years, there’ll be a free park & ride from The Crown pub, from 9am till 5pm, sponsored by the Five Mile shopping centre.
Show-goers can also park at Lake Hayes’ southern end and walk or bike to the show, while there’ll be a crossing over Ladies Mile for residents on the other side of the highway to use.
Limited parking at the showgrounds is $10 per vehicle.
The show kicks off at 8am with horses in the Classic Builders Arena.
Home industries entries can be viewed in the Baxter Design-sponsored pavilion from 9am and the Five Mile main stage opens at 9.30.
Wyatt says the theme this year is ‘back to basics’, featuring demonstrations covering everything from composting for beginners and food preserving to floral styling and upcycling.
Key events include the 2pm Ray White grand parade with all the show winners and 2.30pm Mountain Scene hobby-horse race.
The show’s also being lengthened this year — it normally finishes about 4pm but band entertainment will go through to about 5.30 and showjumping till 6.30pm-7pm.
Wyatt says there’ll be about 100 volunteers dressed in bright lime green for easy identification — platinum partner Coronet Peak’s rewarding them with mountain bike gondola passes.
Groups helping out like Rotary, Lions and synchronised swimmers also get their coffers boosted.
Show-goers are asked to bring a water bottle or reusable cup to help the event become waste-free.
The entry fee’s $15 for adults and $5 for secondary school students (younger kids go free).
- For the full programme and other info, visit www.lakehayesshow.com
